Miami Police Deliver Helping Hand

MIAMI, FL — On a typical day, Miami police find themselves frequently delivering bad news — to the owners of cars parked illegally, to people acting stupid in public and far worse. But Friday was anything but typical for Miami's finest who instead found themselves, delivering fresh vegetables and other food items to the community they serve. By day's end, officers had helped 1,000 people as part of the department's Farm Fresh Florida initiative.

"The objective is to continue to build bridges with the community and serve the needy round-the-clock," explained Officer Kenia Fallat of the Miami Police Department.

The food came from an organization called Farmshare, which collected donations.

In addition to vegetables, officers also gave out fresh fruit, milk, cereal, bread, chicken, beef, deli cuts and canned goods at no cost to recipients.

Such initiatives allow police officers to be seen in a softer light and "bring closeness between the police and the community so that they know we are here to help," Fallat said.

She added that community members who took advantage of the program were not asked to meet any eligibility requirements. They merely had to ask for a helping hand.

Photo and video courtesy Miami Police Department